Updated: March 14, 2007

Women's History Month – LaToya Peterson

As a child, LaToya Peterson promised her grandmother that she would be successful. Currently the Director of DEP’s Procurement Accounting Office, LaToya has certainly fulfilled that promise. As Director, she oversees DEP’s relationship with vendors, ensuring that goods and services are purchased according to strict regulations and that all vendors receive prompt payment.

LaToya has had a long career at DEP, starting as a high school student with the Agency in 1993. After receiving her Bachelor’s degree in Technology from the New York City College of Technology, LaToya became Deputy Director of the Procurement Accounting Office, where she managed DEP’s general fund, which has a value of nearly $500 million. Since her promotion to Director, LaToya has worked to increase the accountability and effectiveness of procurement operations.

She feels honored to be named one of DEP’s Women of Distinction, and attributes her career development to her supervisor, Carol Fenves, who helped LaToya gain confidence in her own abilities, and to the encouragement and support of her husband. LaToya encourages future generations to “follow your heart and everything else will fall into place,” and hopes her own success can set an important example for her two children, Tyra and Robert.